Jimmy Jones is afflicted with a nervous disorder that causes him to start and tremble at any unexpected noise. Despite many manful attempts to cure himself, Jimmy is looked upon as a coward by the people of his town; even Lillian Gilman, the girl he admires, shares in the popular contempt for him. When the World War breaks out, Jimmy goes to France, where he comes under the influence of Sergeant Banks, a canny veteran who doesn't know what fear is. Banks teaches Jimmy the ropes and hardens his moral and physical fiber. Jimmy returns home a new man, whips his rival, and wins Lillian for his wife.